By Kathy Fanger and Laura Schemmel
Summertime ... Ahhh ! – A welcomed change from the often-hectic pace of our lives . We eagerly look forward to graduations , weddings , family reunions , and vacations . Even ‘ stay-cations ’ can be a refreshing alternative , restfully enjoying one ’ s home , perhaps accomplishing projects and scheduling local outings and time in nature .
Safety should be uppermost in our minds as we enter summertime . We need to be proactive in protecting ourselves and our loved ones . How ? … by being alert to safe driving practices , staying ultra-hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion and stroke , using protection from the sun with sunscreen and hats , being alert to safety and supervision of children around pools , lakes and oceans , avoiding the hazards of bug and tick bites , and wasp stings . When we are responsible about practicing safety , we can approach our summer days knowing we have done our part , to the best of our abilities , to stay healthy and avoid unnecessary hazards . End of Life Safety – What ’ s that ? Catholic Cemeteries is here to tell you that there is another essential , often forgotten , consideration of safety and we are here to assist you with . That ’ s the safety in the peace of mind you give yourself and your loved ones when you have shared with them your end of life
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plans . Perhaps they are clearly in place and you just need to share them . If your end-of-life plans are not in place , perhaps your loved ones can assist you in making decisions and making sure they are documented . These include : having a California Advance Health Care Directive , a will and living trust , assigning and communicating the names of individuals you have asked to be your financial power of attorney and primary / secondary health care agents , your wishes for Catholic Funeral Services , your choice of burial – cremation or casket , burial property and location … and there ’ s more . Summertime offers you the chance to restfully review , plan , and document these end-of-life plans . Sharing your plans and having these important conversations can make such a difference . Your loved ones are all on the same page , clearly knowing what you wish , thus no surprises at the time of death , which , if not done , can cause exhausting and unnecessary emotional and financial burdens . Remember that all your wishes should be documented and in a defined location . It will be a feeling of security for your loved ones to receive the benefits of your planning .
Make life ultimately about relationships – not the logistics .
Give us a call before your family gathers for a reunion , a camping trip or vacation . We would be happy to give you some conversation starters . Catholic Cemeteries offers you the resources to help with all your end-of-life planning
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needs . Let us assist you in accomplishing these essential steps . Once in place , you can concentrate on living and enjoying the relationships that are most important .
Call us today for a free appointment and to request our Legacy Planning Guide – a comprehensive step-by-step booklet to document important end-oflife information and your wishes . Call ( 650 ) 549-6059 .
Estate Planning June 23 , 10 a . m . – 12 p . m . Saint Francis of Assisi Parish – Fireside Room - 5111 San Filipe Road , San Jose Presenter : Paul Pelosi , Attorney at Law , Pelosi Law Office , San Jose Estate Planning is a comprehensive process involving many components . Basic elements covered : Revocable Living Trust ; charitable and legacy planning , a lifetime gifting program , medical care planning ( Advance Directive ); financial power of attorney , burial and funeral planning . Free .
End of Life Decisions :
A Catholic Perspective August 4 , 10 a . m . – 12 p . m . Saint Victor Parish-Stephen Perata Parish Center - 3150 Sierra Road , San Jose Presenter : Deacon Ray Gans Choices at end of life present unique challenges , particularly within a complex and technologically advanced society . Physical death is perceived within modern society as the ultimate human
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tragedy . This presentation will explore end-of-life choices within the context of faith in Jesus and the moral tradition of the Church . Free .
Parish Bereavement Ministers ’
Training Series 3 Saturdays : August 11 , 18 , 25 9 a . m . – 2 p . m ., Saint Christopher Parish 1576 Curtner Avenue , San Jose The ministry of consolation depends on faith , compassion and prayerful presence . This is an in-depth training and enrichment series for parish staff , clergy and volunteers . Focus includes knowledge of grief process , effective communication , and models of parish consolation programs . RSVP by July 27 . To register , contact Laura Schemmel at cemeteryinfo @ dsj . org or ( 650 ) 428-3730 x511 . Cost : $ 100 / person . Fee returned upon completion of all 3 sessions .
Solace – Soul + Grief Monthly Drop-in Grief Support Group June 27 , 7-9 p . m . ( 4th Wed . each month ) O ’ Connor Hospital Main Entrance Chapel - 2105 Forest Avenue , San Jose Facilitator : Candee Lucas , M . A . Pastoral Ministries . Each month we will use a different scripture as a seed for our sharing , discussion and support . No RSVP necessary . Free . Sponsored by Catholic Cemeteries and O ’ Connor Hospital .
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